Botswana has become an affiliated member of the World Federation of Diamond Bourses (WFDB), a move expected to reinforce the country’s ambition to position its natural diamonds as a global benchmark for responsible sourcing.
The announcement was made on Monday at the WFDB International Summit in Gaborone where Minerals and Energy Minister Bogolo Kenewendo said the affiliation supports Botswana’s drive to deepen local participation in the diamond value chain and promote its stones as “development diamonds.”
“For decades, Botswana has been a trusted source of the world’s finest natural diamonds. But our ambition now goes beyond mining – to bring the diamond industry home and deepen economic participation for Batswana,” Kenewendo said.
Botswana is the world’s leading producer of gem‑quality diamonds and has long relied on the sector to fund public services, infrastructure and social programmes.
However, the rise of synthetic diamonds and shifting consumer preferences have increased pressure on natural producers to demonstrate ethical sourcing and transparent governance.
Kenewendo said Botswana’s diamonds are conflict‑free and regulated under strong institutional frameworks, adding that the country aims to become a global reference point for trusted natural diamonds.
WFDB officials said Botswana’s membership strengthens collective efforts to defend the long‑term future of natural diamonds amid growing competition from lab‑grown alternatives.
Industry leaders at the summit described the affiliation as a strategic step in safeguarding Botswana’s reputation and expanding its international marketing through initiatives such as the government’s House of Botswana campaign.
JN/APA